U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that he is pressuring Jordan, Egypt, and other Arab countries to accept more Palestinian refugees from Gaza following the humanitarian crisis caused by the ongoing Israeli war on the territory.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump discussed his recent conversation with Jordan’s King Abdullah II, praising Jordan’s efforts in successfully hosting Palestinian refugees.
“I told him that I would like Jordan to take in more Palestinians because I see Gaza in complete chaos right now. It’s a real mess. I would like him to accept more people,” Trump stated.
He added, “I also want Egypt to take people,” noting that he plans to discuss the issue with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi later today.
On Saturday, Jordan’s King Abdullah II emphasized the United States’ role in pushing all parties toward achieving peace and stability in the Middle East.
This came during a phone call between King Abdullah II and President Trump, according to a statement from the Jordanian Royal Court.
The statement noted that the King “congratulated Trump on his inauguration as President of the United States, wishing him success in fulfilling his duties.”
The King expressed his commitment to “strengthening the solid ties and strategic partnership between Jordan and the United States, as well as expanding opportunities for cooperation in various fields.”
He also reaffirmed the “central role of the United States in urging all parties to work towards peace, security, and stability for everyone in the region.”
The Israeli war on Gaza has claimed the lives of more than 47,000 Palestinian martyrs, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health. It has led to accusations of genocide and war crimes, allegations which the occupying state denies.
The war has also caused the displacement of nearly the entire population of Gaza and has resulted in a severe food crisis.